As 2024 and the Small Business Development Corporation’s (SBDC) 40th anniversary year draws to a close, I am formally concluding my tenure as Small Business Commissioner of Western Australia and CEO of the SBDC. After thirteen rewarding years leading this agency, I leave with the confidence that it is in excellent hands. The SBDC is supported by a...
Does taking a break feel like mission impossible? Here are some ideas to help you plan some time off without it impacting on your business.
Right now, you might be wondering how your business will cope with the pressures of inflation, supply chain disruptions, wage increases and the complexities of global trade, including tariffs. We spoke with seasoned business consultant Trevor Flint, who shared practical strategies to help you stay ahead of rising costs while supporting your growth...
Sometimes the simplest business tips are the most important pieces of advice you can adopt, and that’s definitely the case when it comes to ‘get it in writing’.
The Small Business Friendly Approvals program, funded via a Streamline WA commitment to streamline regulatory processes in Western Australia, has seen the SBDC work with selected local governments to identify reforms that will improve the process of starting and operating a small business in each area. The City of Wanneroo, one of the first local...
Are you thinking of funding your business with a bank loan? It may be helpful to know what financial institutions are looking for when deciding whether to approve your business loan application. How banks decide whether to give you a business loan While there are a few different ways to fund your business, including through your own savings or...
The cost of renting your premises can be one of the biggest overheads in your business, and can put the pressure on you when a rental increase is looming. Learn about market rent reviews and what you can do if you’re a tenant facing rising rental costs. The costs of being in business are rising because of inflation, interest rate rises and other...
Three of Western Australia’s regional local governments are making a difference to their small business communities by joining the SBDC’s Small Business Friendly Local Governments initiative.
No manager to answer to, no annoying colleagues and no one to tell you when you can clock on and off – sounds appealing, right? For many, the benefits of being their own boss far outweigh the challenges, making self employment an appealing option for many Western Australians. In fact, as of June 2023, there were 150,000 non-employing businesses in...
As we transition out of our week of lockdown here in WA, I’d like to take a moment to recognise and commend small businesses for the part they have played. Over the week our thoughts have been with many members of the community, including small businesses, who have been impacted by the devastating bushfire emergency in Perth’s east, as well as the...
With a common goal, Chris Schmid and Reen Richards created a purpose-led business to support Aboriginal communities, paving the way for their business success. About Woollahra This shared purpose has enabled Chris and Reen to build a thriving business, manufacturing and supplying environmentally responsible cleaning products and related consumables...
If you are thinking about starting a business, but don't know where to begin, this FREE workshop will take you through the essentials.